Understanding Common STIs and Their Impact on Women’s Health
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and diseases (STDs) are a significant public health concern, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. STIs are generally acquired by sexual contact, and most birth control methods will not stop transmission. The organisms which cause STIs may be passed from person to person through blood, semen, vaginal or other bodily fluids. Sometimes these infections can be transmitted through nonsexual routes, such as an infected mother to her newborn.
People who are infected with STIs usually appear healthy and may have mild symptoms or none at all. As a result, they’re often unaware that they are infectious to others, which is significant as having an untreated STI can have lifelong consequences. Women, in particular, face unique challenges and health risks associated with STIs. Understanding these infections and taking proactive steps to protect oneself is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.
Common STIs and Their Impact
Human Papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is one of the most prevalent STIs, with numerous strains affecting both men and women. In women, certain high-risk types of HPV can lead to cervical cancer. Regular screening through Pap smears and HPV tests is essential for early detection and prevention.
Chlamydia: Often asymptomatic, chlamydia can cause severe reproductive health issues if left untreated, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to infertility. Annual screening is recommended for sexually active women under 25 and those with new or multiple partners.
Gonorrhea: Similar to chlamydia, gonorrhea can also lead to PID and infertility. It is increasingly becoming resistant to antibiotics, making prevention and early treatment more critical than ever.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): HSV can cause painful sores and has no cure, although antiviral medications can manage outbreaks. It can also increase the risk of contracting other STIs, including HIV.
Syphilis: Though less common, syphilis can have severe long-term health effects if not treated promptly, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs. Syphilis is treatable with antibiotics, but the damage caused cannot be undone and may result in death.
Trichomoniasis: In women, trichomoniasis can lead to an increased chance of contracting HIV. In pregnant women, it can also cause premature birth or low birthweight. Trichomoniasis is treatable with antibiotics.
HIV/AIDS: While advancements in treatment have improved the quality of life for those living with HIV, it remains a life-threatening condition. Women are particularly vulnerable due to biological and socio-economic factors.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is not an STI itself, but it is a serious complication that can result from certain STIs. PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs, often caused by untreated STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea. Some symptoms of PID include pain, fever, abnormal vaginal discharge with a bad odor, bleeding between periods, and burning with urination. If you have these symptoms, see a doctor right away.
Possible outcomes of PID include the buildup of scar tissue inside and outside the fallopian tubes, chronic pelvic pain, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. If someone has an abortion while having an untreated STI, they increase their risk of severe infection or PID. While PID can be treated with antibiotics, any damage to the reproductive system cannot be undone. Early treatment is crucial. If you are considering an abortion, it is important that you are tested and treated prior to the abortion to protect your health and fertility.
STIs: Protecting Yourself
Education and Awareness: Understanding the risks and symptoms of STIs is the first step in prevention. Regular education and open discussions about sexual health can empower women to make informed decisions.
Regular Screening: Routine STI screenings are vital, especially if you are sexually active. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment can prevent complications and reduce the spread of infections.
Personal Protection: Using condoms consistently and correctly can reduce the risk of STI transmission, though it does not eliminate your risk altogether. Additionally, limiting the number of sexual partners and engaging in mutual monogamy can further decrease risk.
Vaccination: Vaccines are available for certain STIs, such as HPV and hepatitis B. Getting vaccinated can provide long-term protection and reduce the incidence of these infections.
Open Communication: Discussing sexual health with partners and healthcare providers is crucial. Transparency about STI status and testing can help protect both partners.
Dealing with Social Stigma & STIs
At times, the social stigma associated with STIs hinders public health efforts. If a person feels embarrassed or judged for having contracted an STI, those feelings may deter them from seeking treatment in a timely manner. This not only harms personal health but also contributes to the continued spread of infections.
It’s important that we have open, honest, and empathetic conversations about STIs and STDs. These are common medical conditions that require care and understanding, not judgment. In fact, estimates show that more than half of people in the US will contract an STI in their lifetime. The CDC estimates infection rates of up to 20 million new cases each year.
At Clearway, we’re here to support and equip you, not judge you. Testing for and treating STIs is necessary for anyone who is sexually active (outside of a mutually monogamous relationship). When you seek testing, you’re protecting your health and others!
Untreated STIs & Pregnancy
Sexually transmitted infections can have profound implications for women who are pregnant. When left untreated, STIs can lead to serious health complications, affecting both fetal and maternal health.Understanding the risks and being proactive in protecting your health as well as promptly treating any existing infections is essential.
By prioritizing education, regular screenings, and safe sex practices, women can protect themselves and contribute to a healthier society. Remember, taking control of your sexual health is a powerful step towards a healthier future.
Untreated chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy and infertility. During pregnancy, these infections can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and can be transmitted to the baby during delivery, leading to eye infections or pneumonia. Other infections, such as HSV or HIV, can be transmitted from mother to child during delivery.
If you have recently become pregnant, detecting a sexually transmitted infection becomes all the more important. You can protect yourself and your child with testing and treatment. Don’t hesitate to seek out the care you need! Communicate openly with your healthcare provider.
If you’re sexually active, you should be tested regularly. You may have only had 1 partner, but there’s still a risk due to their sexual history. In many cases, people do not have any signs or symptoms. In fact, that’s why many experts prefer the term sexually transmitted infections (STIs), because you can have an infection without disease symptoms.
At Clearway Clinic, we offer free STI testing and treatment for two of the most common bacterial STI’s, chlamydia and gonorrhea. We provide testing for women only but will treat the partner if either test is positive. Both of these STIs commonly display no symptoms, so even if you’re asymptomatic, it’s important to get tested. If you require full-panel testing, we can let you know where you can go in the Worcester and Springfield areas.
Schedule your free STI testing appointment today.
Reviewed by Deana G., BSN RN
The information in this article is for education purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Contact your provider for more information.
